Goa, June 6 -- The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee has sharply criticized the state government for pushing ahead with the controversial double tracking of railway lines, accusing it of undermining public rights and ignoring environmental concerns. The party has invoked the strong opposition once voiced by former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar to bolster its stance.

Back in 2013, Parrikar had categorically rejected the proposal, stating, "I have refused the permission to double the track of South Western Railway in Goa. We don't want it." He argued that a single line was sufficient for the state's needs and alleged that the project served the interests of a few industries aiming to transport coal from the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT). Callin...